Jonathan Scott Smith Criminal Defense Firm

Woman Tries to Hit Grocery Store Employee with Car

A 27-year-old woman is in custody after allegedly attempting to run over a Martin’s Food employee in Eldersburg on August 14, 2019. According to the store employee, the woman entered the store, filled a cart and some bags with groceries, and then left without paying. When he confronted her in the parking lot, she attempted to run him over with the car she was driving. She missed, but crashed into a parked car in the parking lot and fled.

The employee took a picture of the vehicle’s license plate and called police, who tracked down the owner in the 7400 block in Sykesville. The owner admitted that the woman lived there. She was arrested and charged with a number of other violations, including first-degree and second assault, theft, reckless driving, and driving without a license.

AV-Rated Frederick County Criminal Defense Attorney

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith brings more than three decades of experience to criminal defendants throughout the greater Baltimore area and across the state of Maryland. He’s been named one of the top 100 lawyers in Maryland by Super Lawyers, and was designated a Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer Magazine in 2012. The American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys has named him as one of the “10 Best Attorneys in the State of Maryland in Client Satisfaction.”

Smith is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, given to less than 1% of all American lawyers who have obtained million dollar judgments, awards or settlements. He has a 10.0 (Superb rating) as a litigation attorney from AVVO and has also received the Client’s Choice Award from AVVO, with an average client review of 5 stars.

Attorney Smith is a highly experienced trial attorney, with the skill, knowledge and resources to protect your rights in any criminal prosecution. He’ll also gather, assess and preserve all evidence in your defense and will confirm that police and prosecutors followed constitutional requirements. He’ll carefully question all potential witnesses, so that he can prepare and present the strongest arguments in your defense. He’ll aggressively protect your constitutional rights throughout the criminal process, from investigation and arrest to arraignment and trial.

Smith has been AV-rated (the highest rating possible) by his colleagues in the legal profession under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System every year since 1988 and has also received Martindale-Hubbell’s Client Distinction Award, awarded to less than 4% of all attorneys in that directory. The National Trial Lawyers Association, a “by invitation only” professional organization, has honored him as one of the top 100 attorneys in Maryland.

Police Say Homicides Up 16% Over 2018

Police officials in Baltimore released statistics earlier this month, comparing the number of homicides in the city over the first half of the year with each of the prior two years. According to the data, 171 murders had been reported in 2019, compared with 147 a year ago. The report also indicated a significant increase in the number of non-fatal shootings and attempted murders, up 28 percent over the last 12 months. As further evidence of the serious problem the city faces, Fraternal Order of Police representatives say the bloodshed has only intensified in the last two weeks, with 11 homicides in just 14 days.

Experienced Baltimore County Criminal Defense Lawyer

For more than 30 years, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith has fought for the rights of people facing criminal charges in Baltimore and across Maryland. He has a thorough understanding of criminal law and procedure, and will take the time to fully investigate your case, gathering and protecting all relevant evidence, and confirming that law enforcement officers did not violate your constitutional rights.

Attorney Smith has been listed among the top 100 lawyers in Maryland by Super Lawyers, and was honored as a Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer Magazine in 2012. He has maintained an AV rating (the highest rating possible) under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System every year since 1988 and has also been the recipient of Martindale-Hubbell’s Client Distinction Award, an honor bestowed upon less than 4% of all attorneys listed there. The American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys has identified him as one of the “10 Best Attorneys in the State of Maryland in Client Satisfaction.” He’s a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, awarded to less than 1% of all American lawyers who have obtained million dollar judgments, awards or settlements. The National Trial Lawyers Association, a “by invitation only” professional organization, counts him among the top 100 attorneys in Maryland. Attorney Smith also has a 10.0 (Superb rating) as a litigation attorney from AVVO and has received the Client’s Choice Award from AVVO, with an average client review of 5 stars.

Effective Criminal Defense Lawyer in the Greater Baltimore Area

At the law offices of Jonathan Scott Smith, we fight for the rights of criminal defendants. Contact our office online or call 410-740-0101 to arrange a meeting. We handle cases throughout Anne Arundel County, Howard County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

A 15-year-old Howard County boy, the suspect in a New Year’s Eve killing in Ellicott City, has died of self-inflicted wounds. The youth apparently shot himself in the head after firing shots at a 16-year-old neighbor and her mother.

According to police, the girl’s mother had picked her up from a New Year’s Eve party some time after midnight and returned home. Moments later, she heard noises in her daughter’s bedroom and went in to see what was happening. She discovered her daughter struggling with the young man, who was wearing a mask. When the mother confronted the intruder, he shot her and her daughter, then shot himself.

Police say they have no evidence to suggest any relationship or connection between the suspect and the girl, but are investigating whether the boy may have been involved in a string of burglaries in the neighborhood in recent weeks. They say that the gun used was stolen from another residence on Marybeth Way.

Ellicott City, MD Criminal Defense Attorney

Maryland Super Lawyer Jonathan Scott Smith has fought for the rights of criminal defendants for more than 30 years. Because of his record and reputation, he has been a multiple recipient of the Client’s Choice Award from AVVO, based on an average client review of 5 stars (the highest rating possible). He has a perfect 10.0 Superb rating as a litigation attorney from AVVO, and is also respected by his colleagues in the legal profession, who have given him an AV-rating under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System. Smith was also recognized as a 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer Magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

Top-Rated Criminal Defense Lawyer in Maryland

We offer aggressive defense to anyone charged with or under investigation for a crime. Contact us by e-mail or call us at 410-740-0101 to schedule an appointment. We represent criminal defendants in Howard County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince Georges County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

A Carroll County man has been found “not criminally responsible” for the attempted murder of his wife after his attorneys argued that he’d been taking Chantix, a prescription medication to help him stop smoking. The man’s attorneys told the court that the pharmaceutical product had caused the defendant to have “a chemical imbalance.” Prosecutors did not challenge that assertion and instead allowed the man to plead guilty to a reduced charge.

One of the requirements to be convicted of a crime is that you must have had “mens rea,” or a guilty mind. If you are incapable of understanding that your actions are criminal, for any reason, you are considered to lack the capacity to commit a crime. With the Carroll County man, the court essentially ruled that he did not know what he was doing at the time and could not be held criminally responsible.

Top-Rated Violent Crimes Defense Attorney in Maryland

For more than 30 years, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith has successfully protected the rights of people facing criminal prosecution in Maryland. He takes a comprehensive approach to criminal defense, carefully gathering and evaluating the facts of your case. He’ll confirm that police followed proper procedures, so that your constitutional rights were protected.

Attorney Smith has earned a solid reputation with clients and colleagues, including recognition as a Maryland Super Lawyer, as well as an AV-rating under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System (the top rating possible). Honored as a 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer Magazine, he has also received the Client’s Choice Award from AVVO, with an average client review of 5 stars (the highest rating possible). He also holds a 10.0 Superb rating as a litigation attorney from AVVO.

Experienced Ellicott City, MD, Criminal Defense Attorney

To learn how we can help protect your rights in a criminal matter, contact our office by e-mail or call 410-740-0101 to schedule an appointment. We defend people throughout Howard County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince Georges County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

Criminal charges are always serious. For immigrants, though, a criminal conviction can bring even more problems. For instance:

If you are an immigrant, a conviction can lead to deportation

If you have a green card, a conviction can lead to the loss of your permanent residency status

A conviction can lead to the loss of your chance for American citizenship

Your right to remain in the U.S. isn’t threatened only by a felony conviction. Even a seemingly minor and “private” domestic violence dispute can lead to deportation, as can a one-time conviction for petty theft.
If you are an immigrant facing criminal charges in Maryland, have questions regarding the rights of a family member facing criminal charges, contact the Columbia law firm of Smith Criminal Defense Firm. Firm founder and attorney Jonathan Scott Smith is an experienced criminal defense lawyer who has assisted numerous immigrants fight and beat criminal charges.

In addition, attorney Smith is a former prosecutor who is highly experienced in handling criminal cases involving immigration issues on both sides of the law. He is committed to providing the aggressive legal representation needed to keep you out of jail and in the U.S. This means that, if a conviction occurs, we can use appeals, motions to vacate and other legal options available in an attempt to eliminate or reduce your charges and achieve a cancellation of removal.

To discuss your legal concerns with an attorney who has worked with numerous immigrants charged with crimes in Maryland, please contact Smith Criminal Defense Firm by calling 410-740-0101.

Have you been charged with a weapons charge in Maryland? Prosecutors work aggressively to prosecute alleged weapons laws violators. Do not take on prosecutors without experienced legal assistance. Contact attorney Jonathan Scott Smith of the Smith Criminal Defense Firm.

Mr. Smith has handled hundreds of criminal cases in Maryland, both as a criminal defense lawyer and as a prosecutor. Have you been charged with:

Aggravated assault?

Carrying a firearm without a permit, or carrying a concealed handgun?

Felon in possession?

Assault with a dangerous weapon?

A weapons charge in conjunction with a drug crime, theft or other crime?

Tough Penalties for Weapons Charges

Under Maryland sentencing guidelines, crimes that involve a gun can lead to increased jail time and other legal penalties. More information regarding Maryland gun laws.

Once convicted of a weapons charge, you may face consequences of your weapons charge conviction that may affect the rest of your life. At the Smith Criminal Defense Firm, we understand that your future hinges on the outcome of your criminal case.

Ellicott City and Columbia Weapons Defense Lawyer

We are experienced in handling weapons charge cases and can conduct the in-depth investigation needed to build an effective defense. Attorney Smith has tried hundreds of criminal cases to verdict, including numerous criminal jury trials.

Highly Rated Howard County Criminal Lawyer

Mr. Smith is a top rated attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience, including weapons and gun cases. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of criminal cases in the local courts, including Howard County. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him. Mr. Smith’s results speak for themselves.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in deadly weapon, gun, firearm, and other criminal cases — has earned him the recognition of the legal community, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO rating. These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the best criminal defense attorneys in Howard County.

Contact Us

To schedule an appointment with an experienced weapons lawyer and criminal defense attorney, contact us online or call us at 410-740-0101. Put the skill and experience of a former prosecutor to fight for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Helping You Understand Maryland’s Laws and Your Legal Rights

Texting While Driving Prohibited

In October of 2011, Maryland lawmakers tightened legal restrictions for texting while driving. Previously, drivers were banned from talking on a cell phone or typing out texts while driving. As of October 1, 2011, drivers are prohibited from writing, sending, or reading a text message (or other electronic message) while operating a motor vehicle in the travel portion of the roadway. The only permitted exceptions are (1) use of a global positioning system, and (2) contacting a 911 system.

Additionally, police officers were at one time unable to charge drivers for texting unless the driver was pulled over for another offense such as speeding. Drivers can now be pulled over solely for the charge of cell phone use or texting.

What are the Penalties for Texting While Driving in Maryland?

Legal penalties in the form of fines are relatively light, but they increase if the accused contests the charge and loses in court. If a driver receives a citation for texting while driving, and chooses not to contest the charge, the penalties are 1 point and a $70.00 fine, and 3 points and a $110.00 fine if the violation contributed to an accident. If a driver contests the citation in court, and is found guilty, the penalties are 1 point and up to a $500.00 fine, and 3 points and up to a $500.00 fine if the violation contributed to an accident.

Learn More about Distracted Driving Laws

Howard County Traffic Ticket Lawyer

If you have been charged with texting while driving, or using a cell phone while driving, and wish to contest the charge or simply learn more about your rights, contact Jonathan Scott Smith of the Smith Criminal Defense Firm.

Jonathan Scott Smith is a former prosecutor and Howard County traffic ticket lawyer with more than 30 years of experience representing drivers in traffic violation cases. Many of our new cases are referred to us by former clients or by other attorneys. He fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him. Mr. Smith’s results speak for themselves.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO rating. These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the best criminal defense and traffic ticket attorneys in Columbia, Ellicott City, and Howard County.

Contact Our Office

For an appointment, contact us by e-mail or call us at 410-740-0101. Put an experienced Maryland traffic violations defense lawyer to work for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

A drunk driving arrest creates substantial risks involving loss of your driver’s license, and perhaps even your freedom. It is critical to select and hire an experienced Maryland drunk driving lawyer to advise you and to represent you aggressively.

Many people who are charged with drunk driving receive a pile of solicitation letters in the mail from attorneys they have never met. There are companies that review court filings on a daily basis and then sell lists of names to attorneys. These attorneys then mail form letters soliciting their services. These solicitation letters often include absurdly low legal fees, and mislead the public regarding the true cost of experienced and qualified lawyers.

Top Rated Attorney

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in DUI/DWI and drunk driving charges, and other criminal cases— has earned him the recognition of his peers, with an AV® Preeminent™* Peer Review Rating in the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, and a 10.0 Superb AVVO rating. These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition. Attorney Smith is considered to be one of the best criminal lawyers in Howard County.

Points of Distinction

Over 30 Years of Courtroom Experience

Former Prosecutor

Author of Criminal Law Books for Lawyers

Lectured and Trained Prosecutors

Highest Rating for Legal Ability and Professional Ethics

Former Criminal Prosecutor

Jonathan Scott Smith was employed as a prosecutor (Assistant State’s Attorney for Baltimore County) from 1980 to 1984. He prepared and prosecuted thousands of felony and misdemeanor criminal cases. This included an extensive number of jury and non-jury trials in Maryland district courts and circuit courts.

As a prosecutor in the district court, Mr. Smith handled all aspects of thousands of cases until their conclusion, including an extensive number of non-jury trials. The cases included drunk driving and other serious traffic cases, thefts, assaults, drug possession, handgun charges, violation of probation hearings, and bail hearings.